Selling Doesn’t Have to Feel Icky: A Mindset Shift for Small Business Owners
One of the most common struggles small business owners face is selling. We know it’s an essential part of running a business, yet for many of us, asking for the sale can feel uncomfortable—even a little “icky.”
But what if that discomfort comes from the wrong impression of what selling really is?
Let’s break it down.
You Only Remember the Bad Selling Experiences
Think back to the last time you felt “sold to.” Chances are, it was a negative experience—maybe someone was pushy, overly aggressive, or didn’t seem to care about your actual needs. That sticks in your memory because it was unpleasant.
Now think about the last time you bought something you genuinely wanted or needed. You probably don’t remember the sales part at all. Why? Because when the selling is done well—when it feels natural, helpful, and aligned with your needs—it doesn’t feel like selling. It feels like a great buying experience.
So if you’re holding back from selling because you don’t want to come across as sleazy, remember: You’re not that kind of salesperson.
Reframe Selling as Helping
Instead of thinking of sales as pushing your products or services onto someone, try this simple mindset shift:
“Who can I help today?”
When you focus on the people you can genuinely help—those whose lives or businesses will be better because of what you offer—selling becomes something entirely different. It becomes a conversation. A collaboration. A connection.
You’re not “closing a sale.” You’re opening a relationship.
Selling Should Feel Like Working With Your Best Friend
When you approach selling from a place of service, it feels more like working alongside a friend than convincing a stranger. You understand their problems, you know your offer is a solution, and you genuinely want to help.
That’s not sleazy. That’s powerful. That’s good business.
Final Thoughts
If you’re passionate about your offer and confident that it helps people, don’t shy away from selling. Embrace it with a mindset of service—and watch how your business grows, not just in sales, but in relationships, too.